exploration

noun

ex·​plo·​ra·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈrā-shən 

-ˌsplȯ-

: the act or an instance of exploring

explorational

ˌek-splə-ˈrā-sh(ə-)nəl 

-ˌsplȯ-

adjective

Synonyms of exploration

• investigation
• inquiry
• examination
• study
• probing
• research
• probe

Examples of exploration in a Sentence

a topic for scholarly exploration

the early exploration of the West

early explorations of the West

Recent Examples on the Web

Williams will conduct scientific research and technology demonstrations at the orbiting outpost aimed at advancing human space exploration and benefiting life on Earth, NASA said. —Arkansas Online, 28 Nov. 2025

Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are investing aggressively at home and abroad, expanding output capacity, pouring billions into exploration, and building trading and refining arms. —Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 28 Nov. 2025

Black Friday has officially arrived, and Kingbull is once again at the center of the conversation as riders across the country upgrade their daily commute, weekend adventures, and all-terrain exploration. —New Atlas, 28 Nov. 2025

The choice is fitting with the exploration Joan undertakes while trying to find love again with Luke. —Alamin Yohannes, Entertainment Weekly, 27 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1537, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing exploration

• re-exploration
• self-exploration

Rhymes for exploration

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

exploration

noun

ex·​plo·​ra·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈrā-shən 

: the act or an instance of exploring